Which comprehensive school reform programs have evidence of positive effects on middle and high school achievement? To find out, this review summarizes evidence on comprehensive school reform (CSR) models in grades 6-12. Comprehensive school reform models are programs used schoolwide to improve student achievement. They typically include the following elements:

Innovative approaches to instruction and curriculum used in many subjects throughout the school

Extensive, ongoing professional development, and coaches or facilitators in the building to help manage the reform process

Measureable goals and benchmarks for student achievement

Emphasis on parent and community involvement

CSR models are developed and supported by national organizations, mostly nonprofits, that provide professional development, materials, and support to networks of schools.

Full ReportComprehensive School Reform Quality Center. American Institutes for Research. (2006, October). CSRQ Center report on middle and high school comprehensive school reform models.